Priorities
We've done some amazing work in recent years, but there's more to be done. Heidi is excited and hopeful for future growth and progress in Hopkins!
HOUSING & DEVELOPMENT
It's no surprise that so many people desire the qualities Hopkins has and want to call Hopkins home. It's important to protecting existing housing and our hometown feel, while also proactively supporting new housing & development options. To meet the needs of all residents, we must be even bolder in introducing the "missing middle" housing types, such as duplexes and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), that are crucial for a balanced and vibrant community. Hopkins should be a place where all income levels can live and thrive. Heidi strives to ensure that we maintain affordable and diverse housing options and backs that up with policy. ​​
EQUITABLE COMMUNITY
In 2022, our City Council for the first time reflected the diversity of our city which includes our 40% population of people of color. We are a city of many cultures and backgrounds and our city leadership should remain that way as well. Heidi uses her position to ensure that historically underrepresented residents that are often left feeling unheard, continue to have a strong voice to speak up for them. She also serves on many boards and committees to help advance various types of equity and supports a sense of community through cultural events and public art.​​
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Equity also means ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to succeed and belong. That's why we're not only focused on policies that support diverse communities, but also want to address challenges faced by groups like our senior residents, who want to stay in the homes and neighborhoods in the hometown that they helped build.
CLIMATE & SUSTAINABILITY
Climate change is real. Hopkins has made amazing progress on a long-term sustainability plan. Heidi has long supported the exploration of how to help more buildings in Hopkins use solar and other clean energy options. She is also loves to see residents engaged on environment issues and taking action.
Since 2022, Hopkins has taken huge steps in programs like adopting the the Hopkins Climate Solutions Plan, and advancing levels in GreenStep Cities!
ACCESSIBILITY
Hopkins is appealing for so many reasons, and one of those reasons is how accessible it is. Whether it's one of the multiple trails, city sidewalks, streets, or the upcoming Green Line LRT, there's a way to get where you want to go! Heidi believes in "Complete Streets", a design concept that prioritizes the safety of all people using the street over the speed of moving cars. Creating space for everything from pedestrians, to bikes, to shared mobility methods like scooters, to public transportation, ensures that everyone living in and visiting Hopkins can access our beautiful city!
CITY MAINTENENCE AND GROWTH
This necessary item is two-fold:
Maintaining our essential infrastructure is a top priority. We've saved taxpayers millions by strategically merging construction projects, ensuring our foundational needs are met efficiently and without unnecessary burden on residents. This proactive work is essential to prevent costly emergencies and ensure our city's long-term reliability and growth.
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And as our city grows in developments and prepares for the arrival of our new light rail system, we must ensure our public safety staff are ready to serve both residents and the new visitors this expansion will bring. We want to be be able to provide our professionals with the training opportunities and competitive pay they deserve, reflecting our community’s strong appreciation for their vital service in this new era of growth.
